How Seasonal Changes Impact Roof Longevity in Minnesota

Minnesota is no stranger to the changing seasons. We distinctly experience all four here, from hot, rainy summers to blustery cold winters. While consistent seasonal changes are one of the biggest appeals of living in this beautiful state, they can also do a number on your roof.

Understanding how seasonal changes impact roofing can help you maximize your roof’s longevity.

Seasonal Challenges Your Roof Faces in Minnesota

Living in Minnesota means you need a roof that can withstand all four seasons and the rapid, intense change between them. Sudden temperature fluctuations can produce thermal shock, which places stress on the roof and can lead to damage. Seasonal changes can also promote expansion and contraction, leading to cracks, separation of seams, and warping.

Aside from the effects of changing temperatures, specific seasonal changes impact roofing as well:

Winter snow can place excessive weight on roofs, causing them to sink and buckle. It’s not abnormal for Minnesota to receive several feet of snow over just a few days. Snow weighs between 10 and 15 pounds per cubic foot, placing significant strain on your roof that can lead to structural impairments.
Ice dams can form when heat from the attic causes the snow on your roof to thaw and then refreeze at the edges. The constant freeze/thaw process can lead moisture to seep under the shingles and weaken the structure.
Spring rains reveal and worsen small leaks in the roof. The rainy spring weather often comes with strong winds, which can loosen shingles or cause trees to fall on the roof.
Summer storms can lead to significant storm damage. The heavy winds and strong, pounding rains can cause wear and tear on your roof and lead to tree damage.
Sunny weather can also hurt your roof as intense UV rays cause shingles to crack, curl, and dry out.
Autumn debris from nearby trees can accumulate on the roof and clog gutters, trapping water with it and causing moisture damage.

Preparing Your Roof for Seasonal Changes

Knowing how seasonal changes impact roofing is the first step to protecting your home. The next step is to keep a few roof maintenance tips in mind to help prepare this structure for Minnesota’s challenging weather conditions.

Insulate your attic: A well-insulated attic prevents ice dams from forming when snow and ice accumulation thaw and freeze repeatedly. Schedule an attic inspection and improve your insulation if necessary.
Check for signs of damage periodically: Get into the habit of checking your roof for signs of damage. Don’t climb on top of your home; stand on the ground and survey it as best you can. Fix damage before seasonal changes impact roofing.
Choose a durable roofing material: Slate, tile, and metal roofing offer better durability and wind resistance than asphalt shingles. Your roofing company can recommend the most durable material for your home.
Clear gutters once each season: Cleaning gutters isn’t just important to prevent clogs; it also protects your roof. Clogged gutters cause water to pool on the roof, producing moisture damage.
Schedule annual roof maintenance: Hire a professional roofer to inspect your roof at least once annually and perform maintenance. They can also implement weatherproofing solutions to increase your roof’s longevity.

Request a Free Roof Inspection From Elite Remodeling Services

Now that you know how seasonal changes impact roofing, it’s time to protect your home and boost its longevity. At Elite Remodeling Services, we offer comprehensive maintenance to keep your roof in the best condition long-term. Allow us to inspect every square inch of your roofing system, repair damage, and prepare your roof for the season ahead.